Thriller in Bulawayo
In the third and final game, Pakistan managed a modest total of 137-7 in their 20 overs after losing their top three batters during the powerplay. Zimbabwe, in response, made the chase dramatic. A middle-order collapse threatened their chances after a strong start, but Brian Bennett’s composed 35-ball 46 guided them to victory with just one ball remaining. Richard Ngarava sealed the game by hitting the winning runs on his very first delivery, earning Zimbabwe a consolation win. Bennett was named Player of the Match for his crucial innings.
Series Highlights
Despite losing the final match, Pakistan won the first two games, ensuring a series victory. Fast bowler Abbas Afridi was exceptional throughout the series, claiming five wickets at an impressive average of 7.60 and earning the Player of the Series award.
Also Read: Pakistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2024 squad and Schedule
Impact on ICC Rankings
The series had minimal impact on the ICC T20I team rankings. Pakistan retained their position at seventh, while Zimbabwe remained outside the top 10.
Neither team has secured automatic qualification for the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026. Only the top eight teams from the 2024 T20 World Cup earned direct spots, while three additional spots will be decided based on ICC rankings ahead of the tournament. Pakistan is currently in one of these automatic qualification positions, whereas Zimbabwe will need to compete in the Qualifiers.
ICC T20I Team Rankings (Updated Standings)
| Position | Team | Matches | Points | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 70 | 18,747 | 268 |
| 2 | Australia | 48 | 12,417 | 259 |
| 3 | England | 45 | 11,497 | 255 |
| 4 | West Indies | 56 | 14,060 | 251 |
| 5 | New Zealand | 51 | 12,578 | 247 |
| 6 | South Africa | 44 | 10,770 | 245 |
| 7 | Pakistan | 51 | 12,217 | 240 |
| 8 | Sri Lanka | 45 | 10,467 | 233 |
| 9 | Bangladesh | 53 | 11,898 | 224 |
| 10 | Afghanistan | 39 | 8,682 | 223 |
| 11 | Ireland | 49 | 9,629 | 197 |
| 12 | Zimbabwe | 53 | 10,283 | 194 |
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